Russia stirs the political pot again in Italy as reports surface that Moscow has financed political activity abroad for years. The leak from unnamed U.S. intelligence sources suggests that nearly 300 million dollars were spent since 2014 to influence parties in more than twenty countries. Once made public on Tuesday, the claim has intensified an already tense election season in Italy with a little over a week before polls open.
Right‑wing movements such as the League led by Matteo Salvini have not hidden their admiration for Russia in the past. They have countered the narrative by arguing that the Kremlin’s involvement dates back further than current accusations and that any financial support would have been used transparently. The League issued a statement asserting that the only verified fact is that a long‑defunct Communist Party was among the earliest beneficiaries of funds from Moscow.
In response, the Union coalition warned it would condemn any party that misrepresents funding sources. They stressed that false claims and insinuations will not be tolerated and called for accountability. Giorgia Meloni and her Brothers of Italy party echoed similar lines, insisting that the party’s financial records are verifiable and that no funds are received from foreign outsiders. Meloni’s remarks followed a report in the Italian newspaper La Repubblica that quoted the party’s position directly.
Analysts note that former U.S. envoy Kurt Volker, who served during the Trump era, and other figures had suggested that Moscow’s influence could extend beyond Salvini and Berlusconi’s circles to other reformist or nationalist groups. The broader implication is that Russia’s involvement might complicate Italy’s domestic political alignments. The Russian Embassy in Rome issued statements denying the accusations and urged greater transparency, while euro‑level voices urged scrutiny from all sides. Antonio Tajani, a leading member of Forza Italia, called for clarity, and Enrico Letta, head of the progressive Democratic Party, warned that Russia has sought to sway political forces in Europe.
Secret services on alert
Officials emphasized that there is currently no definitive evidence placing Italy among the countries receiving Russian funds. Adolfo Urso, head of the Republic’s Security Commission, acknowledged that the situation could evolve and that ongoing investigations would determine any future exposure. The matter has prompted security officials to plan further parliamentary oversight and review of intelligence sharing.
In a forceful tone, Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio pointed to the possibility of additional documents that could illuminate past connections involving older parties such as the Five Star Movement, which left the government coalition last year and has been linked in some circles to Moscow from earlier years. A special parliamentary session, convened to address national security concerns, was set to review security procedures and potential foreign interference measures.
Tensions within the right‑wing coalition
The political climate mirrors growing friction between the League and the Brothers of Italy, partners in the current right‑of‑center alignment. Salvini’s remarks in recent days have drawn sharp comments from Meloni, who suggested that disagreements over policy and strategy have intensified. The two parties diverge notably on fiscal policy and economic strategy amid an energy crisis that has strained household budgets. Salvini has argued for more aggressive public spending to ease the burden of rising utility costs, while Meloni has stressed prudence given a heavy national debt and market volatility. Critics say the disagreement reflects deeper questions about how to balance immediate relief with long‑term fiscal stability, especially as inflation and energy prices remain a concern. Meloni has urged restraint, insisting that any response should be measured and fiscally responsible. The exchange underscores a broader debate about Italy’s path forward in a challenging global economic environment.